SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan, has welcomed the news that Scotland’s Baby Box – 871 of which have already been delivered across the Western Isles – is receiving a makeover for its fifth birthday.

The Scottish Government introduced the Baby Boxes scheme in 2017, entitling every newborn in Scotland to a box containing essential items intended to make sure that every child has the best possible start in life.

Based the latest figures for number of Baby Boxes given out by health boards, 235 622 boxes have been distributed to parents across Scotland since the start of the project.

Commenting, Alasdair Allan said:

“The arrival of a new baby is a wonderful moment for every family, but as every parent no doubt appreciates, the financial costs involved in welcoming a new addition to the family can be significant - particularly when household budgets are under increasing pressure with the cost-of-living crisis.

“Regardless of the circumstances of new mums and dads, receiving a baby box with the essential items needed for the first six months of their child’s life really is a huge help to families here in the Western Isles.

“The baby box is one of many transformative actions the SNP is taking to make a real difference to children and families in Scotland. For example, the Scottish Child Payment for families on low incomes is a benefit unique to Scotland, and will soon be raised to £25 per week per child.

“The SNP government continues to deliver bold policies for a fairer Scotland with the limited powers at its disposal. However, it is only with the full powers of independence that we can properly build a better future that works for everyone.”